Parliament Winter session: Adani bribery allegations, Manipur violence take center stage in all-party meet

NEW DELHI: The Opposition on Sunday demanded a parliamentary discussion on bribery charges leveled against the Adani Group by US prosecutors during the customary all-party meeting ahead of the Winter Session, set to commence on Monday. Union minister Kiren Rijiju, however, clarified that the agenda for Parliament will be decided by authorized committees in consultation with the presiding officers of both Houses.

The meeting, chaired by defence minister Rajnath Singh, saw participation from 42 leaders representing 30 political parties. Parliamentary affairs minister Rijiju urged all parties to cooperate for the smooth functioning of the session, which is scheduled from November 25 to December 20.

Congress raises Adani, Manipur issuesCongress deputy leader in the Lok Sabha, Gaurav Gogoi, described the bribery allegations against Adani as a “scam” and demanded the matter be taken up on priority. According to US prosecutors, Adani Group companies allegedly paid $265 million (Rs 2,200 crore) in bribes to Indian officials for favorable solar power contracts in four states. The group has denied the allegations, terming them baseless.

Congress leader Pramod Tiwari called for an immediate discussion, emphasizing the issue’s implications for India’s economic and security interests. The Opposition also reiterated its demand for a debate on the violence in Manipur, with Gogoi questioning the government’s continued support for chief minister N Biren Singh.

Andhra parties push for reorganization act promisesBJP allies Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Jana Sena Party highlighted unfulfilled commitments under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act of 2014. TDP leader Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu demanded updates on pending projects, including the Polavaram irrigation project, and called for discussions on disaster management in southern cities.

Other concerns and legislative agendaDMK’s Tiruchi Siva opposed the proposed Waqf (Amendment) Bill, urging its withdrawal. Lok Sabha MP Arun Bharti raised the need for flood relief in Bihar and constitutional safeguards for SCs and STs under lateral entry provisions.

The government has listed 16 bills for consideration during the session, including the controversial Waqf (Amendment) Bill and the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, both pending in the Lok Sabha. Discussions around simultaneous elections are also anticipated, although no formal proposal has been tabled yet.

The session is expected to witness intense debates as Opposition parties demand accountability on critical issues impacting the nation’s economic, social, and political fabric.

Stay updated with the latest news on Times of India. Don't miss daily games like Crossword, Sudoku, and Mini Crossword.